Little Vikings Magazine (Issue 36)

York for kids Issue 36

FREE Summer 2020

Summer in York for Families

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Hello!

Welcome to the first all-digital issue of Little Vikings, here to guide you through the summer months ahead. We can’t change this strange new situation we’re in, so let’s embrace it. With foreign holidays looking unlikely, it’s the ideal time to explore Yorkshire and enjoy what’s on our doorstep.

Of course you’ll want to know what’s open, what’s recommended and what safety measures are in place, which is where we come in. Read on to find out the best family days out in Yorkshire this summer, all of which have the Little Vikings seal of approval.

We’re likely to be spending more time at home, too, so don’t forget to sign up to this year’s Summer Reading Challenge (online) and have a go at our craft and recipe. If you do fancy a night or two away, we’ve got some great familyfriendly options for a Yorkshire staycation.

Now more than ever, things may change, which is why we’d always recommend that you check before you travel. Do sign up to our weekly newsletter (via Facebook or our website), and follow us on Facebook and Twitter so that you don’t miss a thing. And check our website every day for any changes. Stick with us and we’ll help you have a Yorkshire family summer to remember.

Stay safe, have fun and see you next time.

All at Little Vikings HQ

Aside from being locked down for weeks on end, since last time we’ve…

• Added lots of brilliant family recipes to the Little Vikings website, from cakes to breads and family meals. Take a look and get cooking!

• Discovered the joy of the crepes and galettes from Krep in Shambles Market - check it out!

• Had a relaxing day out at Dalby Forest, collecting sticks and exploring new parts of the forest • Enjoyed a visit to Castle Howard - the kids loved rolling down every slope they could find • Had one too many food deliveries, all in the interests of supporting local businesses of course...

Little Vikings was founded and is run by a York family. Contact us at hello@little-vikings.co.uk. Office address The Hiscox Business Club, Peasholme Green, York YO1 7PR. Content © Little Vikings 2020.

Little Vikings is a registered trade mark. Every effort has been made to ensure that this guide is upto-date and accurate, but some things are liable to change. Always check details before you travel.

York Museum Gardens re-open

Thor’s Sol Ast returns to The Principal Hotel York this summer If you’re longing for a catch-up with friends in the sunshine this summer, we’ve got just the venue for you: Thor’s SOL AST. The ever-popular outdoor bar, from the team behind Thor’s Tipi, is returning to The Principal York Hotel Gardens on Friday 10th July 2020 with new safety measures in place.

It will be open daily from 11.30 am to 11 pm daily, and advanced bookings will be taken.

The glorious York Museum Gardens are now open seven days a week, from 10.30 am to 6 pm, and we couldn’t be more pleased.

Why do we love it so much? Well, it’s beautiful – with lovely views of the river – and there’s lots of wildlife to spot (if you don’t see a couple of squirrels, you’ve been unlucky). It’s a stone’s throw from the shops and close to lots of great options for takeaway food. It’s also near some of our other favourite places to take the kids (Explore York Library, York Art Gallery and York Theatre Royal – when they’re open, of course) and it’s free for us all to enjoy. Social distancing is in place, and there are two takeaway food and drink options.

Take a walk along York’s city walls again We’re so happy about the re-opening of York’s city walls. It’s the best way to see the city, with amazing views and lots of history to drink in along the way.

Hop on and off whenever you feel like it, and rest assured that you’re never too far from a tasty coffee, ice cream or slice of cake.

The city walls are oneway (clockwise) for the time being (if you’ve ever tried to squeeze past a group of people coming in the opposite direction, you’ll know why – social distancing is impossible!).

Family-friendly food at Shambles Market

York Castle Museum and York Art Gallery reopen It’s been a long time coming, but we’re really excited that two of our favourite York attractions are reopening again. York Castle Museum and York Art Gallery will open again on 1st August - or Yorkshire Day as we like to think of it - with plenty of measures in place to make sure that visitors feel safe. Visit yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk for more details as they’re released

Since lockdown, we’ve been rediscovering the takeout food options Shambles Market and it’s now our kids’ favourite place to eat in York. The crepes and galettes from Krep are amazing (some

of them contain Oreos - say no more!) and the coffee and Anzac biscuits from The Dark Horse are fantastic too. Next time you’re in town and peckish, give it a try!

The libraries are back!

Missed your local library?

Us too! It’s great news that some of them are opening their doors again for the summer. There will be safety measures in place and they aren’t open every day, so check before you travel. There’s a brand new cafe in Hungate, and the

cafes at Rowntree Park and Homestead Park are open for takeaway drinks and snacks too.

THE BEST THINGS T WITH KIDS IN AND A YORK THIS SUMMER Check before you travel!

There’s no shortage of things to do with your kids this summer in and around York, from escaping to the woods to meeting the Vikings, getting lost in a maze to playing hide-andseek in some incredible gardens.

TO DO AROUND R

York Minster

Mother Shipton’s

York’s most iconic building is opening its doors again this summer and there’s plenty for families to see and do. York resident? Take your proof of address for free admission to this stunning place.

Head over to pretty Knaresborough to Mother Shipton’s to explore the Pixie Village, woodland walk, petrifying well, wishing well and the cave itself. The adventure playground is open and there’s ice cream for sale (even for dogs, too!). Picnics are welcome.

Booking - Pre-booking required More info - https://yorkminster.org/

Booking - All tickets must be booked in advance online.

More info - mothershiptons.co.uk

Newby Hall Newby Hall is a gorgeous place to explore, with stunning gardens and much more. While some things remain closed, the miniature railway has reopened and ice creams, snacks and drinks are available too.

Booking - All tickets must be pre-booked in advance.

More info - Visit newbyhall.com

enpointeyork.co.uk

Ballet . Jazz . Tap . Lyrical . Contemporary . Technique . Pointe Work . Acro Gymnastics Classes start from 2yrs to adults . 7 days a week . Studios in York . Start a trail this term

DON’T FORGET TO PRE-BOOK!

Whitby Abbey

The Balloon Tree

If you needed another reason to head to the pretty town of Whitby, its top attraction is now open again.

Whitby Abbey is welcoming visitors to explore the ruins and run around and enjoy the fresh sea air.

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as tucking into a punnet of berries that you’ve picked yourselves, and now is the time for PYO. York’s top fruitpicking spot is The Balloon Tree at Stamford Bridge. Before you travel, check what’s ready for picking and make sure you book your time slot.

Booking - Pre-booking required More info - https://www. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/whitby-abbey/

Booking - Pre-booking required More info - theballoontree.co.uk

The Great Yorkshire Maze New for 2020 is the Great Yorkshire Maze, a fun day out for families. As well as the obligatory maize maze, there’s fairground rides, entertainment and local food on offer.

Booking - Pre-booking required More info -https://www. greatyorkshiremaze.com/

Beningbrough Hall, Gallery & Gardens We had a lovely day out at Beningbrough once lockdown restrictions were eased. See what’s growing in the gardens,climb a tree, explore the parkland and much more.

Booking - Pre-booking required More info - https://www. nationaltrust.org.uk

Bolton Abbey If you fancy a family walk in a beautiful setting, Bolton Abbey is a great option. There are oneway systems in operation, but other than that you’re free to roam and enjoy a stroll in nature.

Booking -Pre-booking of your parking slot required More info - https:// boltonabbey.com/

Dalby Forest

Scarborough Castle

What better time to escape to the forest? Dalby is a glorious place for a day out, with acres of forest to explore, lots of walking and cycling trails and lots more. It’s a place that’s guaranteed to spark children’s imaginations, and you might just come home with a bag full of sticks (unless that’s just us). What’s more, admission is free (just pay to park).

If it’s fresh air that you’re after, Scarborough Castle delivers it by the bucket full. Pack your kite, explore the ruins, run around to your heart’s content and enjoy spectacular views of the sea. Make it part of your next seaside day our.

Booking - No need to prebook, but we’d advise arriving early in case it’s busy.

More info - https://www. forestryengland.uk/dalby-forest

Booking - Pre-book in advance More info - https://www. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/scarborough-castle/

Promotion

Search for fairies at Northwood Trail – England’s fairy sanctuary Set in a glorious 100 acre wood close to York, Northwood Trail is the perfect day out for families and adults alike. With its rustic fairy houses and charming fairy doors, this outdoor attraction isn’t just magical, it also promotes exercise and good health.

The woodland creatures have been busy while they were closed, a dragon has made a nest and laid some eggs and new fairy houses have appeared all over the wood…Fancy making a family-friendly stay of it? Why not book into Jollydays Glamping and enjoy an award-winning off-grid glamping break just a stone’s throw from York and many of Yorkshire’s best family attractions.

Pre-booking essential - Visit the Northwood Trail website for tickets https://northwoodtrail.digitickets.co.uk/tickets www.northwoodtrail.co.uk

Fountains Abbey Social distancing is not an issue in the vast grounds of Fountains Abbey.

There’s oodles of space to explore, with the abbey, water garden, visitor centre and more open to enjoy. Tickets are currently released every Friday for pre-booking.

Booking - Pre-booking required More info - https://www. nationaltrust.org.uk

Piglets Adventure Farm Piglets is back for summer, and there’s lots to enjoy. Meet the animals, explore the maze, embark on a trail or enjoy some time at the ‘beach’.

Booking - Pre-booking required More info - pigletsadventurefarm.com

Wolds Way Lavender and Nature Farm There’s lots for children to enjoy at Wolds Way Lavender, with plenty of new attractions for 2020. Do the nature trail, spot some birds, ride the minature train, explore the willow maze and have a go at mini footgolf.

Booking - Pre-booking required More info - https:// woldswaylavender.co.uk/

Promotion

Local tuition centre helping children to catch up and keep up As families in York have been getting to grips with homeschooling, Kip McGrath Education Centre York West has been providing invaluable support.

Kip McGrath Education Centre York West is a family run tuition centre that provides personalised tuition in English, maths and science. Directors of Kip McGrath York West, David and Ruth Hardy, are fully qualified, DBS checked teachers who aim to help students to reach their full potential by providing tailored tuition using their tried and tested resources. They work regularly with students who struggle at school, those with additional needs and those students who require more challenge than school can offer. David and Ruth recognise that for students, closing gaps in learning is important but maintaining understanding is key to long term success, they therefore work on helping students to catch up and keep up.

The centre usually runs tuition sessions on weekday evenings, however, during the pandemic they have also been running lessons, via their online platform, throughout the day, to help parents with home schooling. Kip McGrath York West will be providing tuition right through the summer holidays to support students in the run up to the return to school in September.

All prospective students undergo a free assessment with Kip McGrath York West, during which David or Ruth ascertain the student’s strengths and weaknesses and use their findings to put together a personalised plan for the student. Parents receive regular updates on their child’s progress and many parents often comment that their child has not only made rapid academic progress but has grown in confidence thanks to the progress they’ve made.

Kip McGrath York West, which is one of three Kip McGrath Education Centres in the city, is an OFSTED registered childcare provider, this means that they are able to accept a range of payment methods including childcare vouchers, working tax credits and tax-free childcare, which makes their services accessible to all.

Visit the https://www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/york-west Issue 36

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ESCAPE TO ANOTHE THE SUMMER READ

It’s going to be a summer like no other, with most of us spending a lot more tim might not be able to get on a plane, but your kids can still go on lots of amazin

The Challenge is always one of the highlights of the long school holidays for o whether it would be happening in 2020. Well, the good news is that it’s going d summer months. As always, it’s free to access - hooray.

This year’s theme is Silly Squad, and it promises plenty of fun, laughter and - o there’ll be celebrity draw-alongs from authors and illustrators and silly readin

You can sign up through the Summer Reading Challenge website now. You ca out of things to read - there’s no excuse for them to go back to the TV!

Visit the Explore York website for more information and to sign Issue 36

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ER WORLD WITH DING CHALLENGE

me at home than usual, so what better time to get lost in some stories? You ng adventures thanks to the Summer Reading Challenge.

our children, but with the way the world is at the moment we wondered digital so that everyone can get involved and keep reading during the

of course - silliness. As well as games, quizzes and downloadable activities, ngs from the likes of David Baddiel, Paul O’Grady and Konnie Huq.

an even borrow e-books and audiobooks to take part so your kids don’t run

n up (https://www.exploreyork.org.uk/) www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Summer Issue 36

Little Vikings Book Club

York

for k

ids

With several weeks to fill before the kids (hopefully) go back to school in September, there’s no better time to get them reading. We might not be able to go on holiday in the same way that we usually do, but they can still go off on adventures across the seas, into space and into other worlds by getting lost in a great story. Here are three recommendations from The Blue House Bookshop, the lovely independent children’s bookshop on Bootham.

Bugs in a blanket by Beatrice Alemagna (3+) When the little white bug throws a party for the snug-as-a-bug neighbours he’s never met, he’s surprised that they don’t all look like him! This simple story introduces diversity, tolerance and acceptance to young children in a quirky little hardback book, perfect for small hands.

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Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species by Sabina Radeva (6+) Sabina Radeva brings the theory of evolution to life for young readers for the first time in a childfriendly picture book. Factual and informative, with beautiful illustrations, this book introduces curious children to the ideas of Charles Darwin. Great for budding scientists and an age-defying read!

Wonderscape by Jennifer Bell (9+) On their way to school, three children are accidentally sent to the future.

Trapped in a virtual reality game with famous historical characters, the three children have to navigate their way through each landscape by solving puzzles. But can they play their way home before they run out of time?!

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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JORVIK Viking Centre is back open for a socially-distanced Viking experience!

The world-famous JORVIK Viking Centre is welcoming back visitors from 11th July.

York’s original Viking encounter now has plenty of safety and social distancing procedures in place, whilst remaining a great trip out for everyone. The sights, sounds and of course smells of Viking-age York are still creating a wonderful family experience.

Get out with the family and travel through time to the Viking settlement of Jorvik. Discover some of the most beautiful and rare Viking artefacts in the world, from delicate earrings and socks to frying pans and even a fossilised Viking poo! Real-life Vikings will be on hand to share a wealth of information about Norse lifestyles, history and culture.

As well as limiting visitor numbers and ensuring 2-metre social distancing inside, visitors will find regular hand-gel points, and can be reassured that the attraction

is consistently and thoroughly cleaned – from its Viking huts to its cutting-edge artefact display cases.

The new policies have been certified ‘Good to Go’ by Visit England, so visitors can be assured that government and industry standards have been met.

JORVIK will be a memorable postlockdown experience for your whole family to enjoy together without the usual queues!

Pre-booking is essential, and available now online, along with details of all the new safety and hygiene policies.

For one great price, visitors can buy a Triple Ticket that includes JORVIK Viking Centre, Barley Hall and DIG: An Archaeological Adventure. Visit the website for more information and to book your tickets https:// www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/

Promotion

DIG into some socially distanced archaeological fun!

York’s one of a kind archaeological adventure will be re-opening to history lovers from 11th July.

Kids get the chance to become trainee ‘diggers’ and discover the most exciting artefacts from 2000 years of York’s history, guided by friendly archaeologists.

You can still experience everything DIG has to offer whilst enjoying a safe visit with safety and hygiene policies that have been approved ‘Good to Go’ by Visit England.

Pre-booking is essential, and available now online. Visitors can also read more about the attraction’s new safety policies. Visit https://digyork.com/

YORKSHI FAMI ESCAP

IRE ILY PES

We never need a reason to take our holiday in Yorkshire - we regularly hop down the road to Filey for a week, or pack up our tent and head to the Dales. With so much on our doorstep to enjoy, why go further, especially with kids in tow? And York city centre is brimming with things to do with kids, from world class attractions to amazing places to eat, drink and play. With travel restrictions in place, more of us will be holidaying locally this year. It’s a great time to explore Yorkshire and support the many local businesses who have had an incredibly tough start to the year.

Here are three great family-friendly places to stay in Yorkshire and what to expect.

Escape to the woods with a stay at Jollydays Glamping There’s no better time to escape to the woods, and Jollydays Glamping near Stamford Bridge has 200 acres to explore.

With woodland tents, lodge Issue 36

tents and woodcutter huts to choose from, there’s a choice of accommodation for families of all sizes and it’s a brilliant place to escape to (find our review on the Little Vikings website). It’s a wonderfully WiFi-free zone with plenty of unstructured, off-grid inspiration for kids, from fairy houses to places to play. Don’t forget to take

advantage of the oven, too. Guest free access to No England’s Fairy S it’s run by the sa

Visit jollydaysgla for more details a

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Explore the North York Moors at award-winning Woodlands Farm Thimbleby  Nestled on the edge of the North York Moors, Woodlands Farm in Thimbleby is a very family-friendly place to stay.

Set in 10 acres of land, with an orchard, woodland and pastures, there’s lots of space

to play, rest and think. All guest rooms are in converted stables and most have their own entrance (two even have their own cooking facilities).

Breakfast in bed, lunches and picnics can be arranged, and there’s plenty of Yorkshire beer and wine to enjoy if you wish!

It’s in the perfect location to explore the wonderful North York Moors too.

Visit woodlandsfarmthimbleby. com

e fantastic pizza ts can even have orthwood Trail, Sanctuary, as ame family.

amping.co.uk and to book.

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Book a Little Explorers stay with The Grand, York Treat the family to a five star experience in the heart of York at The Grand, York this summer. Their new Little Explorer package is perfect for families and takes the pressure off planning your stay: let your little ones’ imaginations run wild as they explore historic York, with a Issue 36

York Pass included in the package so that you can enjoy many of York’s best attractions for free. You will even enjoy a family afternoon tea, Yorkshire breakfast, late checkout and goody bags for the children! Bookings are flexible and you can cancel up to 4pm the day before arrival.

Visit thegrandyork.co.uk for more details and to book.

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Promotion

SKELF ISLAND REOPENS AT CASTLE HOWARD! The skelves have been in lockdown too, but Castle Howard’s adventure playground is open again and they’re ready to play. There are some new restrictions in place to make sure that everyone is safe.

The Skelves are patient, kind and considerate and they hope you’ll be the same, whilst also having lots of fun! Please read the following information from the friendly gang of Skelves...

They will be limiting the number of

people playing at any one time and they’d suggest that after an hour of playing, you let others have a turn.

The rope bridge to Skelf Island is now one way, from the mainland across to the island, and you can get back to land via the boardwalk.

They look forward to seeing you on Skelf Island soon! Don’t forget that you need to pre-book your tickets to Castle Howard online before you travel.

Visit castlehoward.co.uk.

GARDENS & SKELF ISLAND ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND NOW OPEN

Friends have more fun at Castle Howard

Why not become a Friend of Castle Howard?

Stay and play all year round with unlimited access to the Gardens and Adventure Playground plus a range of other great benefits. If you’d like to ‘try before you buy’ you can upgrade your day admission ticket to an annual membership at the Ticket Office on the day of your visit and we’ll refund your original equivalent admission.

Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA www.castlehoward.co.uk castlehowardest

castlehoward

castle_howard

FIVE REASONS TO VISIT MOORLANDS NATURE RESERVE   Issue 36

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Moorlands Nature Reserve might not be as well known as other green spaces in York, but it has a large and loyal fan base among Yorkshire families. Those who are lucky to live in the nearby villages use it as their second garden, and it’s not hard to see why. This little woodland punches above its weight, with a stunning collection of trees and wildlife that are a pleasure to wander through at any time of year. It’s a nature-spotter’s paradise, too, so pack binoculars or a bird-spotting book and see what you can find. If you’re looking for a short but beautiful walk just outside York, Moorlands is a great option. Here are five reasons why we recommend it to families. www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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1.

There’s lots of nature to spot

Many birds also call Moorlands home: keep an eye out for woodpeckers, nuthatches and a variety of tits! There are two little ponds, so why not see if you can spot any frogs or toads. There’s a handy sign at the start of your trip with ideas for things you might be able to see if you follow the nature trail.

4.

It’s a short enough walk for little legs

Even the most reluctant walker shouldn’t find the circular Moorlands walk too challenging. It’s really short - you could do it in 20 minutes - and it’s flat with a well marked-out path so it should be fine for most buggies and wheelchairs. Although the path is not boarded, like Askham Bog, it’s wellmaintained. It does get muddy if it’s been raining though, so bear that in mind and wear the right shoes.

2.

It’s really beautiful

Moorlands is famous for its incredible rhododendrons that really fire children’s imaginations - visit from March to June to see them in flower.

Why not let your kids take control of your phone and ask them to take some pictures of anything they like the look of? It’s wonderful to be so steeped in nature so close to built up areas.

3.

There’s a treehouse!

Although there’s not a traditional playground, there are lots of natural play opportunities. After all, a child with a stick is usually a happy one!

There’s also a brilliant treehouse that kids love to play in (and a bench or two for parents to watch from - although we wouldn’t judge any parent who wants to play in the treehouse too). www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

5.

It’s free!

There’s no admission charge to enjoy Moorlands, making it another great thing for families to do in York for free. Yorkshire Wildlife Trust would appreciate donations to help maintain it - visit their website for more details.

Good to know - Free on-road parking - No cafe - take snacks - No loos - plan ahead!

Trip essentials Address - Moorlands Nature Reserve, Moor Lane, York YO32 2RE Website - Visit the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust website for more details (https:// www.ywt.org.uk/nature-reserves/ moorlands-nature-reserve) 31

Summer Issue 36

Grand Day Out The Yorkshire Museum of Farming

Where do you go when one child wants to see animals, the other wants to go to the park to play on the swings, and the last one just wants to run about? For us, the answer to that conundrum one sunny Sunday was Murton Park, or the Yorkshire Museum of Farming as it’s also known. Here’s what we made of it.

What is The Yorkshire Museum of Farming?

Like a supermarket ‘buy one get two free’ deal, a visit to Murton Farm gives you access not only to the little museum of Yorkshire history, but also the Danelaw Centre for Living History and The Derwent Valley Light Railway (not running when we visited, but hopefully up and running again soon).

In practice, what that means is that families have a good range of activities to enjoy.

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The museum & outdoor area The museum itself is unlikely to be the part of Murton Park that has kids asking to return: although it’s interesting for adults, it’s small and full of vintage farming equipment that you wouldn’t want a toddler hurling itself towards at full pelt. There is a very small soft play zone that’s currently off-limits thanks to the old Corona killjoy, but would be a life-saver for parents of small children during virusfree times.

No, it’s the outdoor area that is the jewel in Murton Park’s crown: although it’s not the largest, the playground has more than enough equipment to keep our three children occupied for a good half hour (and the picnic benches are a bonus for supervising parents). There was plenty of hand sanitiser to reduce the spread of germs - just one of a few Covid32 www.little-vikings.co.uk

related safety measures that we were grateful for.

themselves several homeschooling points (and at the weekend, too!).

Once we managed to extract the kids from the playground, we embarked on the nature trail, a one-kilometre walk around the site that’s unlikely to challenge little legs too much. We might not have spotted much in the way of rare breeds of birds or bees, but we did spot some butterflies, run around in the long grass and play yet another game of hide-and-seek.

Meeting the animals

The Roman Fort and Viking Village We’ve done an awful lot of nature trails, but we can confidently report that very few of them (none, in fact) have included stop-offs at a replica Roman fort or Viking village. This was an unexpected bonus for all of us: the kids enjoyed running around them and poking their noses into the houses, grain stores and toilets (obviously), while the adults awarded www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

Our kids, like most, are animal-mad, so they were delighted to see Murton Park’s little selection of furry and feathered friends: sheep, hens, guinea pigs and the fluffiest rabbit you’ve ever seen.

Food and drink The cafe at Murton Park was operating a very limited take-out service when we visited, but you are also welcome to take your own picnic. There are picnic tables and plenty of space.

Good to know There’s no need to pre-book your ticket. Parking is free and there’s plenty of it. Look out for the popular Santa Specials during December.

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The verdict

Trip essentials

We spent a good couple of hours at Murton Park and really enjoyed all of the outdoor activities. Traditional but quirky, we appreciated the lack of structure and hands-off approach to our visit. Exploring the Roman fort and Viking village was a real highlight, and the kids just loved the freedom of running about in the grass and seeing the animals. It felt like good value for an afternoon out, and the fact that the tickets are valid for a year is a real bonus. We’ll definitely be back

Time from York - 15 minutes (approx)

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Price - Family of four £25 (tickets valid for 12 months); under 2s free Address - Yorkshire Museum of Farming, Murton, York YO19 5UF More info - murtonpark.co.uk

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Promotion

LEARN TO SWIM WITH PUDDLE DUCKS Puddle Ducks offer award winning swimming lessons from birth to 10 years.

Our classes are designed to promote bonding, water confidence and water safety in a fun and loving environment. We take children through a structured programme designed to develop their natural affinity with the water and encourage them to learn to swim independently.

And although we have spent many years carefully developing our progressive lesson plans to develop swimmers, our teachers adapt every activity to suit each child. Our approach ensures that children’s needs are expertly fulfilled – never forcing development, but rather nurturing it to ensure a positive experience and love of swimming.

For more information please visit www.puddleducks.com

LITTLE VIKINGS EAT...

AROUND THE GLOBE WITHOUT LEAVING THE HOUSE

It looks as though it’ll be a long time until we’ll be jetting off to foreign climes and enjoying the sights, sounds and flavours of another country. But we’re not going to be weeping over our dusty passports just yet. Instead we’re embracing the staycation and travelling around the globe without leaving the postcode, thanks to the many brilliant restaurants offering a takeaway and/ or delivery service.

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ASIA

At the end of a long lockdown week of homeschooling/working/general fretting and climbing the walls, the last thing we want to do is cook yet another meal. At least that’s our excuse for occasionally cheering up our weekends with a takeaway, and we’ve found some absolute gems. YUZU Street Food, operating out of Brew York, has become a firm favourite. Its Japanese and Asian-inspired dishes like fried tofu bao buns and chicken katsu curry are packed full of flavour and interesting textures, and they’re colourful too - just the thing at the end of a tiring week. With lots of great veggie and vegan dishes too, it’s turned into a bit of an addiction.

Visit yuzustreetfood.com/order for details, and book your delivery via Deliveroo or Uber Eats

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BRI PAS

SPAIN

We can’t talk abo mentioning the w run bakery on Wa treats that have b and a huge dollop following, so if yo delivery service, y

Follow Flori Bake

For a taste of Spain, look no further than Ambiente Tapas’ Dine at Home Family Feast. You’ll need to book ahead and collect the meal in your allotted time slot, but it’s worth the admin. Choose five tapas, a meat or veggie paella and a bottle of wine or some beer - a steal at £50.

Unlike YUZU, you’ll have to put a little work into your supper, but you don’t need to be Jamie or Nigella: just follow the easy instructions to make the paella, and heat up the tapas for 15 minutes in the oven. We were hugely impressed with the variety and quality of the veggie tapas we had, from Moroccan couscous-stuffed piquillo peppers to portobella mushrooms with blue cheese and aubergine cannelloni: strong, authentic flavours from great ingredients. The paella, too, was a hit with the whole family, and we even had enough left for lunch the following day. In the absence of a trip to Spain - or even a visit to a real restaurant - feasting on this in the garden felt like a real treat.

Visit the Ambiente Tapas website for details of their next Family Feast and hot tapas delivery.

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ILLIANT STRIES

MORE DELICIOUSNESS TO YOUR DOOR

out food deliveries in York without wonderful Flori Bakery. This little, familyalmgate knocks out pastries and other been made with exceptional ingredients p of love. They already have a large, loyal ou want to take advantage of the weekend you have to be very quick.

• For wine and cheese Pairings Wine Bar • For gin - York Gin • For deli favourites The Hairy Fig

ery on Instagram

• For a vegan feast Doner Summer • For home-cooked meals - Cake Girl • For cakes and sweet treats - Millie Fox Cakes

Find more food delivery services on the Little Vikings website

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

39

Summer Issue 36

LITTLE VIKINGS MAKE...

LEMON SORBET

Zingy and refreshing, this lemon sorbet is the perfect summer recipe. It’s surprisingly easy to make and looks really sweet if you serve it in the lemon skins.

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Ingredients • - 4 lemons (to make 4 portions) • - 125g caster sugar • - 125ml water

Method 1. Carefully cut the tops off the lemons to create your lids. Cut a small amount of skin off the bottoms so that they sit flat on a plate, being careful not to cut right through and create a hole.

2. Use a juicer to squeeze all the juice and pulp out of each of the lemons into a bowl and set to one side.

3. In a small pan, put the caster sugar and cold water and bring to the boil. Heat it until the sugar has dissolved and keep stirring until the liquid becomes a thick syrup (around 10 minutes).

4. Using a sieve, strain the lemon juice to remove any bits and then add the juice to the syrup. Allow to cool.

5. Put the mixture into a freezer-proof container and freeze for a few hours. Put the lemon skins in the freezer to freeze too. Every hour or so, give the mixture a stir to stop it from freezing into a block.

PAINT AT HOME POT T ERY!

Collect from studio, return in a week

STUDIO OPENING 17TH JULY!

6. Once it is frozen, put the sorbet into each of the lemons and serve straightaway.

Promotion

www.rainbowsceramics.co.uk/shop

LITTLE VIKINGS MAKE...

HOW TO MAKE A SUNCATCHER You will need: • • • •

A piece of black cardboard A pair of scissors Some sellotape A few different coloured pieces of tissue paper/thin paper/cellophane • A pencil

1. Using the pencil, draw the outline of a butterfly onto your black card. Make it large enough to cover the entire piece. Then draw on the inside details you want to fill with colour.

2. Cut out the butterfly outline and all the inside details.

3. Take your tissue paper and rip it into strips. Turn over the butterfly and arrange the torn up tissue into

patterns onto where you would like to add colour detail. Take the sellotape and secure the tissue to the back of your butterfly.

4. Turn over your butterfly and trim off any overlapping sellotape and tissue from the outside edge of the butterfly.

5. Using the sellotape or some blue tac, secure your butterfly to your bedroom window and watch the summer sunshine light up your butterfly wings.

Thanks to Gemma from Hoglets for providing the craft.

Hoglets runs weekly drama and storytelling classes online for babies and toddlers from 0-5 years.

See www.hoglets.org.uk for more info.

Issue 36

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www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

43

Summer Issue 36

Jokes What do you call a computer superhero?

A screen saver!

Why did the computer get glasses?

To improve its web-sight!

Why are fish and chip shops always full?

Because the fish fillet!

Why did the music teacher get locked out?

Because they left their keys in the piano!

Why did the jellybean go to school?

To become a smartie!

I broke my finger last week.

On the other hand, I’m okay!

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Promotion

Get Creative this Summer with Arts Award Discover York Army Museum, Explore York Libraries and Archives and York Museums Trust are offering children the opportunity to be creative, have fun and gain a nationally recognised award, Arts Award Discover, this summer.

York’s children and young people can gain their award for free this year by taking part in the creative Arts Award activities available virtually on our websites from Saturday 18th July to 12th September 2020.

Arts Award booklets will also be available to collect free for York residents from York Army Museum reception from Saturday 18th July.

Check out the websites for more details from Saturday 18th July, or email artsaward@yorkarmymuseum.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/yorkarmymuseum/ 18 July to 12 September 2020.

Why Little Vikings loves...

WOLDS WAY LAVENDER AND NATURE FARM Loads of kids activities Cafe serving tasty homecooked treats

The miniature railway is lots of fun Nature trail

Free parking & fresh air!

Mini footgolf Lots of lovely lavender

Wolds Way Lavender and Nature Farm, Wintringham, Malton YO17 8HW - woldswaylavender.co.uk   Issue 36

46 www.little-vikings.co.uk

Dalby Forest North Yorkshire

e im t e if l a r o f g in n r a Le ll a Growing minds as we

Stay in touch 

s trees

forestryengland.uk